By Allison Peck
The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners opened bids for a multi-million-dollar road project, approved a subdivision, and advanced several other agenda items during its meeting Monday.
One of the largest items on the agenda was the opening of bids for an asphalt paving project. Four companies submitted bids for the work, with totals ranging from about $3.6 million to more than $4 million. The apparent low bid came from Western Engineering at approximately $3.61 million, below the county’s estimated cost of roughly $3.85 million. Commissioners tabled a decision on awarding the project to allow additional time for review.
Commissioners also approved the Prairie View Acres Third Subdivision, which adds approximately 1.26 acres to an existing residential lot. The property is located near a tower site, and officials noted that no structures will be allowed within the designated fall zone. The subdivision was previously reviewed and recommended for approval by the Lincoln County Planning Commission.
In other action, the board approved a grant application through the Nebraska Office of Highway Safety for the “Make It Click” seatbelt enforcement campaign. The grant will run from May 15 through May 31 and is aimed at increasing seatbelt usage through targeted enforcement during peak travel hours.
The board also approved a contract with TC Engineering to provide required engineering services for the county, as well as multiple right-of-way applications for fiber installation projects submitted by Consolidated Companies and Charter Communications.
Routine financial business included approval of claims and treasurer’s receipts, along with acceptance of the county sheriff’s fee report totaling just over $9,100. During discussion of claims, commissioners addressed prior questions related to Inland Port project billing and said communication on those items is expected to improve moving forward.
During the Board of Equalization portion of the meeting, commissioners approved a motor vehicle tax exemption application for a vehicle used by the American Red Cross. No tax corrections or refunds were presented by the county assessor.
Commissioners also discussed a request related to the county’s veterans service office, where officials noted a significant increase in demand. The county currently serves between 2,500 and 3,000 veterans with a single service officer, who reported more than 1,000 contacts in March alone. Board members indicated the issue may warrant further discussion as part of future budget considerations.
A public hearing on a liquor license application for a Hershey business was opened but ultimately tabled to a future date after the applicant failed to have a representative or manager present at the meeting. Commissioners said they take liquor license approvals seriously and want to ensure proper oversight and due diligence before making a recommendation.
The board also advanced a protest filed by Mid-Plains Community College regarding the tax status of its former Osgood Elementary School property, an issue that could result in changes to how the property is taxed. Further consideration is expected at a future meeting.